Congressman Downing Honors Denton Educator Ty Neal as September “Montana Innovator”

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Ty Neal as a "Montana Innovator" for the month of September. Conducted in partnership with the Montana 250th Commission, the initiative highlights outstanding Montanans ahead of America's 250th anniversary. Each month features a different theme, with September recognizing achievements in education and academia.

Read the full recognition below:

"This month, I am proud to recognize Ty Neal, an agricultural mechanics teacher at Denton Public Schools who is preparing Montana students for careers in the skilled trades.

Ty was recently named a winner of the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, a national honor that reflects the time, skill, and dedication he brings to his classroom and shop.

Ty gives his students the opportunity to build real, hands-on skills they can carry with them for the rest of their lives. The skilled trades are essential to Montana. They keep our equipment running and help keep our communities strong.

Every student who leaves Ty's classroom with practical experience and confidence is a reflection of his work. He is not simply teaching students how to use tools. He is helping give them a pathway to a good-paying job and a future here in Montana.

This award will also bring new resources to Denton's skilled trades program, creating even more opportunities for students in the years ahead.

Montana needs teachers like Ty Neal, and Denton Public Schools is fortunate to have him. It is my honor to recognize Ty as a Montana Innovator who represents the very best of education in our state."

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